September

Branch Letter

Dear Kingdom Publishers:

We rejoice to announce that, with Jehovah’s blessing, the new presses and bindery at Wallkill are now in operation. We warmly invite all of you to tour these streamlined facilities. How grateful we are to the brothers and sisters from seven nearby Regional Building Committees who have thus far contributed over 67,000 man-hours to this project! One such volunteer remarked: “It was more than a privilege. It was a dream come true for me.”

In Brooklyn, brothers are now working diligently to renovate the 117 Adams Street complex in preparation for the laundry and other essential support departments that are relocating there after the recent sale of the 360 Furman Street building. Hundreds of skilled workers from Regional Building Committees across the country are ‘offering themselves willingly’ in response to a special invitation to assist in this effort. (Ps. 110:3) The first of these volunteers arrived in August. Your heartfelt support of the expansion of pure worship endears you to us and to our appreciative God, Jehovah.−2 Cor. 9:7.

We are pleased to report that a new peak of 2,303,015 attended the observance of the Lord’s Evening Meal. Along with you, we look forward to “having plenty to do in the work of the Lord” as we begin the 2005 service year.−1 Cor. 15:58.

Your brothers,

U.S. Branch Office

Keep Your Eye Simple

1. What does it mean to have a simple eye, and why is this important?

¹ In his Sermon on the Mount, Jesus called attention to the tremendous influence that the figurative or spiritual eye can exercise on our entire life course. He said: “If, then, your eye is simple, your whole body will be bright; but if your eye is wicked, your whole body will be dark.” (Matt. 6:22, 23) A simple eye is one that is focused on a single purpose​—doing God’s will—​not being distracted by undue anxiety over material things. (Matt. 6:19-21, 24-33) What can help us to maintain a simple eye?

2. What view of material things does God’s Word encourage?

² Cultivating Contentment: Providing adequately for the needs of one’s household is a Scriptural obligation. (1 Tim. 5:8) But this does not require that we engage in an endless quest for the best and latest things. (Prov. 27:20; 30:8, 9) Rather, the Scriptures urge us to be content with “sustenance and covering,” the necessities of life. (1 Tim. 6:8; Heb. 13:5, 6) Heeding this counsel can help us to keep our eye in proper focus.

3. What can help us to avoid self-imposed burdens?

³ We are wise to avoid burdening ourselves with unnecessary debt and with possessions or pursuits that require much time and attention. (1 Tim. 6:9, 10) How can we do this? When contemplating a course of action, prayerfully weigh the matter and honestly evaluate whether it will infringe on spiritual pursuits. Be determined to keep spiritual things first in your life.​—Phil. 1:10; 4:6, 7.

4. Why should we look for ways to simplify our life-style?

⁴ Simplify Your Life-Style: Another aid to resisting the pull of materialism is to seek to simplify your life-style. One brother who found that his family could manage well without excess material goods said: “I can now do so much more in the congregation to serve my brothers. I am convinced that Jehovah blesses all of his servants when they put true worship ahead of personal interests.” Could you enjoy greater blessings by simplifying your life-style?

5. Why is constant effort required to keep our eye simple?

⁵ Constant effort is needed to resist the influence of Satan, his materialistic world, and our own imperfect flesh. Rather than allowing our eyes to wander, let us keep them fixed on doing God’s will and on our precious hope of everlasting life.​—Prov. 4:25; 2 Cor. 4:18.

Service Meeting Schedule

Week Starting September 13

Song 43

12 min: Local announcements. Selected Announcements from Our Kingdom Ministry. If the suggestions on page 4 are practical for your congregation territory, use them to demonstrate how to present the September 15 Watchtower and the September 22 Awake! Other presentations may be used. After each demonstration, briefly highlight a positive aspect of the presentation.

15 min: “Keep Your Eye Simple.”a Use the questions that are provided. As time permits, highlight the cited scriptures.

18 min: Eyewitnesses of Our Fine Works. (1 Pet. 2:12) Talk and audience discussion based on the November 1, 2002, Watchtower, pages 12-14, paragraphs 14-20. Invite audience to comment on how people locally have been affected by observing our fine works.

Song 162 and concluding prayer.

Week Starting September 20

Song 88

10 min: Local announcements. Review highlights of the branch letter, which appears on the front page of this issue of Our Kingdom Ministry. Include comments on the September 2003 Our Kingdom Ministry, page 4. Encourage all to read Numbers 16:1-35 and then watch the video Respect Jehovah’s Authority in preparation for the Service Meeting the week of October 4.

15 min: How Did We Do Last Year? Talk by an elder based on the congregation service report for the 2004 service year. Focus on positive aspects of the report, and commend the congregation for the good things accomplished. Highlight the hard work of the pioneers. Mention one or two areas that the congregation could give attention to in the coming year.

20 min: Enduring in Good Works. (Gal. 6:10) Interview two or three who are either regular pioneers or who auxiliary pioneer from time to time. What obstacles have they faced in their service to Jehovah, and how did they overcome them? What has helped them to endure in doing good toward others? How have their efforts in the Christian ministry benefited themselves and others? If applicable, include comments on what has been done locally to reach those who speak other languages with the good news. Commend all for ‘their faithful work and their loving labor and their endurance.’​—1 Thess. 1:2, 3.

Song 103 and concluding prayer.

Week Starting September 27

Song 221

15 min: Local announcements. Accounts report. Remind publishers to turn in field service reports for September. Demonstrate how the October 1 Watchtower and the October 8 Awake! can be offered.

10 min: Jehovah’s Word Is Alive. A talk. To help us benefit more fully from the program of weekly Bible reading outlined for the Theocratic Ministry School, a series of articles entitled “Jehovah’s Word Is Alive” have begun to appear in selected issues of The Watchtower. Using the September 15, 2004, Watchtower, pages 24-7, point out the features of these articles. After a general overview, the section “Scriptural Questions Answered” provides an explanation of some of the difficult Scriptural passages. The comments under “Lessons for Us” draw attention to the practical value of the information in the reading. Consider a few specific examples to illustrate how this series will help us gain a greater understanding of God’s Word. Encourage all to make full use of this provision as we begin reading the book of Deuteronomy next week.

20 min: “Make Good Use of the Bible.”b Use the questions that are provided. Base introductory comments on the Ministry School book, page 145, paragraphs 2-3. Include two brief demonstrations, one an initial call and one a return visit, showing how to apply the suggestions given.

Song 38 and concluding prayer.

Week Starting October 4

Song 5

5 min: Local announcements.

15 min: Local needs.

25 min: “We Must Respect Jehovah’s Authority.” Read Jude 11, limiting introductory comments to no more than two minutes. Then get right into an audience discussion using all of the questions in the article. Highlight the point that to retain Jehovah’s approval, we must avoid Korah’s rebellious attitude and imitate the example of his sons, who let nothing take precedence over their loyalty to Jehovah.

Song 99 and concluding prayer.

[Footnotes]

June Service Report

Av. Av. Av. Av.

Number of: Hrs. Mags. R.V. Bi.St.

Sp’l Pios. 206 99.1 93.8 46.3 4.8

Pios. 88,419 63.9 41.9 20.7 2.0

Aux.Pios. 26,024 49.5 35.1 12.5 1.1

Pubs. 856,461 9.5 8.3 3.6 0.4

TOTAL 971,110 Baptized: 3,253

Announcements

◼ Literature offer for September: Is There a Creator Who Cares About You? As an alternative offer, you may feature Life​—How Did It Get Here? By Evolution or by Creation? October: The Watchtower and Awake! magazines. Where interest is shown, offer the Require brochure, making a special effort to start Bible studies. November: Learn From the Great Teacher. If individuals say they have no children, offer the Require brochure. When using the brochure, concentrate on starting home Bible studies. December: The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived. As an alternative offer, you may use My Book of Bible Stories, The Bible​—God’s Word or Man’s?, or You Can Live Forever in Paradise on Earth.

◼ The video program No Blood​—Medicine Meets the Challenge will be considered at a Service Meeting in December. It is now available on DVD as part of Transfusion Alternatives​—Documentary Series. This DVD contains the following programs: Transfusion-Alternative Strategies​—Simple, Safe, Effective; Transfusion-Alternative Health Care—​Meeting Patient Needs and Rights; and No Blood​—Medicine Meets the Challenge. The DVD presents the English videos with additional sound tracks in French, German, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese (Brazilian), Russian, and Spanish. The No Blood videocassette is available in Bulgarian, Chinese (Cantonese), Dutch, English, French, Greek, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Polish, Russian, and Spanish. If needed, copies of the DVD and videocassette should be requested through the congregation as soon as possible.

◼ The special public talk for the 2005 Memorial season will be given on Sunday, April 10. The subject of the talk will be announced later. Those congregations having the visit of the circuit overseer or an assembly that weekend will have the special talk the following week. No congregation should have the special talk before Sunday, April 10, 2005.

◼ The Annual Congregation Property Documents Review Work Sheet (T-33-E) is to be completed each September by the secretary of the congregation holding title to Kingdom Hall property. Each congregation sharing use of the property should promptly receive a copy of the completed work sheet. If corrective actions are needed, the elders should care for these to protect the interests of the congregation. When the circuit overseer visits the congregation, he will review the congregation property documents and the Safety Inspection Work Sheet (T-34-E).

◼ The elders are reminded to follow through on instructions given on pages 21-3 of the April 15, 1991, Watchtower regarding any disfellowshipped or disassociated ones who should be visited.

◼ Congregations should release the latest issues of The Watchtower and Awake! as soon as they are received. This will allow publishers to become familiar with the contents before offering the magazines in field service.

◼ Since October will have five full weekends, it would be an excellent month to auxiliary pioneer.

We Must Respect Jehovah’s Authority

With what do you associate the ancient names Korah, Dathan, and Abiram? Rebellion! Against what? Godly authority. The details of their tragic course are recorded in Numbers chapter 16, and an overview of the matter is provided in the article “Loyally Submit to Godly Authority” in the August 1, 2002, Watchtower. You would find it beneficial to read this material and then view the sobering portrayal of it in the video Respect Jehovah’s Authority. You will see the conflict that developed between the faithful sons of Korah and their rebellious father, who was on a collision course with the Sovereign of the universe. (Num. 26:9-11) This true-life drama should inspire all of us to develop our loyalty to Jehovah even more fully.

As you watch the video, look for the evidence that Korah and his fellow rebels failed the test of loyalty in six crucial areas: (1) How did they disrespect godly authority? (2) How did they let pride, ambition, and jealousy affect them? (3) How did they focus on the deficiencies of those appointed by Jehovah? (4) What complaining attitude had they developed? (5) Why had they become dissatisfied with their privileges of service? (6) How did they let friends and family take precedence over loyalty to God?

Consider how the lessons learned in this Bible drama apply to our personal view of godly authority today: (1) How should we respond to the decisions of elders in the congregation, and why? (2) How can we counteract any improper motives within us? (3) How should we react to the imperfections of those appointed to take the lead? (4) What should we do if a complaining spirit begins to develop in our heart? (5) How should we feel about any privileges we have been given? (6) Who should never take priority over our loyalty to God, and when might this become a difficult test for us?

After this information is discussed in the congregation, why not watch the video again? Let it doubly impress upon your mind the reasons why we must always respect Jehovah’s authority!​—Ps. 18:25; 37:28.

Make Good Use of the Bible

1. What might you do in preparation for the field ministry?

¹ Regardless of what literature we plan to offer in the ministry, it is beneficial to select a thought-provoking scripture to share with those who will listen. (Heb. 4:12) Selecting a scripture that is used in the publication you are offering would contribute to an effective transition to the publication. In some areas, publishers have found it beneficial to carry the Bible in their hand when approaching a person or when working from house to house.

2. (a) How can we open our presentation with a scripture? (b) What Scriptural subjects interest people in the territory?

² Open With a Scripture: Some publishers open their presentation by asking the householder a simple viewpoint question on a Bible text that they then proceed to read. This quickly directs attention to God’s Word. Would some of these introductions be effective in your territory?

◼ “If you had the power to do so, would you bring about these changes?” Read Revelation 21:4.

◼ “Why are we living in such critical times?” Read 2 Timothy 3:1-5.

◼ “Do you think our community would be a better place if everyone followed this advice?” Read Matthew 7:12.

◼ “Do you think your children will be able to enjoy the conditions described here?” Read Psalm 37:10, 11.

◼ “Do you think the day will ever come when these words come true?” Read Isaiah 33:24.

◼ “Are you familiar with the change of government mentioned here?” Read Daniel 2:44.

◼ “Have you ever wanted to ask God this question?” Read Job 21:7.

◼ “Is it possible to see our dead loved ones again?” Read John 5:28, 29.

◼ “Do the dead know what the living are doing?” Read Ecclesiastes 9:5.

3. How can we help people to understand the Bible texts we read?

³ Explain, Illustrate, Apply: When a person is willing to converse, do not rush through the discussion. Take time to explain, illustrate, and apply the scripture that you read so that the person understands it. (Neh. 8:8) When people understand and accept what God’s Word teaches, it can bring about marvelous changes in their lives.​—1 Thess. 2:13.

4. How can we make good use of the Bible on return visits?

⁴ Continue to make good use of the Bible as you cultivate the interest. You can use this same method when making return visits: (1) Select an appropriate scripture. (2) Raise a simple viewpoint question regarding the text. Then read it. (3) Explain, illustrate, and apply it. Strive to add to the person’s knowledge of God’s Word each time you visit. You may soon be conducting a Bible study!

What to Say About the Magazines

The Watchtower Sept. 15

“Millions of people include these well-known words in their own prayers. [Read Matthew 6:10.] What do you think life would be like if God’s will was fully accomplished on earth? [Allow for response.] This magazine examines the meaning of each part of the Lord’s Prayer, including the part we just read.”

Awake! Sept. 22

“Many people are concerned about a growing problem among young people​—binge drinking. Have you heard of it? [Allow for response. Then read Proverbs 20:1.] Binge drinking exposes young people to many dangers. This article contains information that can help them resist the pressure to abuse alcohol.”

The Watchtower Oct. 1

“All of us long to see an end to crime, violence, and war. Do you think that we will ever see these words fulfilled? [Read Psalm 37:11. Then allow for response.] This magazine discusses how this promise is linked to God’s original purpose for mankind and how we can share in it.”

Awake! Oct. 8

“Isn’t it sad that each year millions of unmarried teenage girls become pregnant? [Allow for response.] This magazine discusses steps they can take to meet the many challenges of teen motherhood. It also considers how parents can help their children avoid this problem in the first place.” Read 2 Timothy 3:15.